Most retired employees expect that their pension every month through the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) will automatically kick in as soon as they retire. But the truth is, it won’t. To get your EPS pension, you will have to do some very crucial things. And if you miss them, your pension can be delayed for weeks, perhaps months.
What Happens to Your EPF and EPS Money After Retirement?
You can take out all of your EPS at once if you have less than ten years of service. But after serving for 10 or more years, you cannot withdraw the amount of pension. You get only a pension every month but after age 58.
It will not be automatic. You will need to apply manually.
To Start Pension, Fill the Right Forms on Time
You must fill out Form 10D in order to claim your pension. This is the most critical one. You cannot fill this form online, you need to go to your local EPFO office and fill it up in person.
Keep the following documents close at hand in addition to Form 10D:
Aadhaar
Bank passbook
PAN card
Two passport-sized photographs
Form 10C (for pension certificate)
It is wise to complete the form at the time of retirement, since the pension system is very slow. Apply early and you will receive it earlier.
Ready To Transfer Pension Between Employments? Here’s How
If you’re not retiring yet but switching jobs, you’ll need to get a Pension Scheme Certificate using Form 10C. This helps transfer your EPS balance from your old employer to the new one. It also ensures your total service period continues to count toward pension eligibility.
EPF Account Still Earns Interest After Retirement
Here’s some good news, your EPF account still earns interest for three years post-retirement, provided you don’t withdraw or deposit anything in between.
As an example, your EPF account will keep earning interest until June 30, 2028, even if you retire on June 30, 2025. Once this is over, the account can be kept dormant, and interest might not be earned unless there are specific circumstances.
In Summary: Don’t Wait, Act Early
When you retire, file Form 10D to avoid pension delays. Don’t take it for granted. Remember that you can claim your entire EPS amount if you have less than ten years of service.
Stay alert, stay ready and have a less-bumpy retirement.